"La Raspa" is a traditional dance from Mexico, often taught to school children. (It is sometimes referred to as the Mexican Hat Dance, but this is incorrect. The Mexican Hat Dance is a more complicated, flirtatious dance performed by adult dancers.) I like to show the students a video of children dancing, to give them an idea of the final product we are aiming towards. They really enjoyed this one:
This is just a home video of someone's school program, but it shows the steps well, along with the traditional costumes and some pretty good little dancers.
We discuss the form of the piece (rondo), then learn the steps for each section. I list ABACA on the board, with steps for each, to help them remember. We partner up, and dance! Sometimes I have kinder and first dance in a circle instead of with partners - it depends on the class. :)
La Raspa is great exercise! Get extra PE minutes, learn Rondo form, and learn multicultural music all in one fun activity. It's a great way to start class for a few weeks. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
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